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Allows people to meet via telephone From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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A chat line is a service that allows people to meet and talk with others via telephone call. When multiple people can join the call, they are also called party lines.
 | This article needs attention from an expert in telecommunications or technology. The specific problem is: The article does not explain the technology behind chat line services and the history of such services, etc., in adequate detail. (June 2021) |
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Description
A chat line service introduces users to others to with via telephone call, often for a particular topic of interest.[1] The service may facilitate one-on-one communication or group interactions. Chat lines may be similar to CB radio in which a number of people both listen and speak together;[2] the term party line may be used for group calls.[1] Chat lines have been likened to the "precursor to the internet chat room".[3]
Chat lines may be used for dating to connect users looking for companionship or various other reasons.[4] Users of chat lines call the phone number of a chat line provider to setup their profile and get matched with a person or group.[4] Many modern services employ moderation and security features.[4]
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History
In the 1980s in the United States, party lines were advertised on television and frequently used by teenagers.[3] Services typically charged for use at a rate based on the number of minutes using the service.[3] To restrict access to chat lines, telephone customers employed the ability to pay a fee and block access to phone numbers from the 900 Service Corporation.[3]
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References
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